New Sanctuary Opens in Belama to Support Survivors of Domestic Violence

The community of Belama Phase 4 witnessed a significant development this morning with the official blessing of new facilities at the St. Mary Magdalene Center “A Sanctuary of Healing and Hope.” The center, created to support women escaping domestic violence, now features three completed living quarters and space for an additional cement structure that will house caretaker for the property and the women seeking refuge there. The project is made possible through funding from the Papal Foundation of the Holy See, the Catholic World Mission, the Divine Mercy Church, and anonymous Belizean sponsors. Construction of the existing units was carried out by volunteer mission teams from Minnesota, who partnered with local supporters to bring the initiative to life. Father Scott Giulliani stressed that assistance is open to any woman in crisis, regardless of religious affiliation, and that the aim is to offer not only housing but a pathway to healing and recovery. He further explained that the center was formed as a direct response to the rising need for safe and reliable shelter for survivors. 

Father Scott Giuliani: “This would not be possible without many different persons coming together. And we already have some success stories of people that we’ve helped, which is great. And then to get the special grant from the Holy See, which was a wonderful opportunity is that I think it’s a recognition that’s very well respected around the world. And it’s just nice to see that there are people that see what we’re trying to do here in both contemplation and renewal for women and to build a civilization of love, move their hearts too. They’re our sisters in Christ and so there’s no need to be another reason.”

Reporter: How many families or how many women would be able to access these?

Father Scott Giuliani: “One at a time and that’s really what it is. It’s one at a time and it’s to be more in depth. It won’t be big numbers but it’ll be one heart, one woman at a time. We have Salma Guerra and she’s the she’s the CEO of it and or they can reach out to Divine Mercy and begin the process of making sure we can best help the person. Because of resources and our abilities there’s certain situations that we won’t be able to help and there’s other situations we will be able to help greatly.”

Reporter: And is there any message you want to send to victims of domestic violence who might be afraid to reach out for help? 

Father Scott Giuliani:  “Jesus loves you. You know Jesus loves you and you can find refuge in the Catholic Church.”

The blessing ceremony began at eight this morning and brought together church leaders, community members, volunteers, and supporters who gathered to formally dedicate the space. Among the invited guests was Belize City Mayor Bernard Wagner, who applauded the establishment of the living quarters and the community effort behind the project.

Bernard Wagner, Mayor of Belize City: “As a municipal authority, it is important that we show support to the Divine Mercy mission as well as Father Scott. This is a very important mission in our view, being able to serve women that are facing challenges and their families. At this time of the year when we are celebrating, not really but really making awareness of gender-based violence in our city and in our country and having this mission dovetail right into that is I believe it’s significant. Well I have to congratulate the mission of Divine Mercy. This is a call to action and they are putting this to action. They are not sitting back, they are taking the lead which is to me very, very important. Too many of our women are being battered across the country and to see that our church is taking this active step and not only when I say the church, I mean Divine Mercy taking the lead in this says a lot for our community wellness.” 

Organizers shared that the center will be linked to a wider support system, offering referrals to social service agencies, counseling, and faith-based assistance. Their focus is to ensure that women who arrive in crisis can find immediate safety while being guided toward long-term stability and independence.